Petzl Aztars or Trango Mantis

[granite_grrl]

Looking at getting a used pair of aztars, hopefully for $300, but mgear.com has the mantises for $200 (USD).

I'm realizing that I know very litte about ice tools...please enlighten me!!!

Rebecca

[Fred]

I don't recommend the Mantis if you plan to climb ice. They don't have any weight in the head and will bounce off like ice tools on concrete.

Last winter we got to try out all the Trango tools. I loved the Madam Hook with leashless handle. NOT the headless Madam Hook. That one doesn't have enough weight on the head and bounces off like the Mantis.

the best leashless tools for vertical ice are IMO
CM Quark Ergo
BD Viper
Trango Madam Hook

[Stef]

I've tried the aztars. They are nice tools, but I find them a little light for hard ice. I'd get them as great set of alpine tools. Tool weight is a pretty subjective thing, however, You might find them perfect. I'll second the vipers and quarks, can't go wrong with either.

cheers,

S.

[martha]

One thing important for you to remember to is that your grip size will be smaller than most since you are female. I've come across tools that are just too big in my hand. um.. ICE TOOLS.

So check that out also. I agree though, the Mantis is crap on vertical ice as it is just too light. Personally, I find that although I have a good swing (finally after years) I still need the head weight to get solid placements as I just don't have the same upper body strength as the guys. You may find the same thing.

I personally love the Quarks.

Your best bet, get boots/crampons and then go out with people who have tools and find out what suits you.

The Simond Najas are decent tools with good head weight and a small grip. I don't personally like the swing of them, but many women do.

hope this helps.

Cara

[Fred]

the Najas are killer to remove from the ice. There are so many better tools these days.

The Vipers and Quarks have manageable grips. I have large hands and I still prefer smaller grips. Avoid Cobras like the plague. It's like holding a six inch pipe/pinch and climbing vertical ice.

[granite_grrl]

Thanks guys...I think that I will play with some other people's tools....worst case is that I'll have to pay full price for a set when I decide, but I'll be happier with what I get.

Its interesting about hand size/grip. I certainly don't have small hands, they're a comaprable size to almost all guys I know....but it'll be something that I'll watch for.

The head weight/upper body strength is something else that I didn't think about, but makes sence. I'll think about that too.

Thanks guys,
Rebecca

[Fred]

regardless of if you have a big or small hand, the big grips are supper pumpy. I have big hands and I prefer small grips.

[dcentral]

regardless of if you have a big or small hand, the big grips are supper pumpy. I have big hands and I prefer small grips.

Is that why you need a sock?

[Fred]